Veterinary hospitals that are fully equipped with the proper tools can be an asset to any pet owner. Partnering with veterinary hospitals that offer state-of-the-art diagnostics can help catch health problems early and provide lifesaving early interventions. Here are five scenarios that should prompt an ultrasound test for your pet.

1. Abdominal Swelling

If your pet seems bloated and uncomfortable, an ultrasound can get a "clear" picture of what is causing the distress. Visible swelling or your pet showing pain when touching its abdomen can indicate internal issues. There are a variety of problems that can cause abdominal pain and swelling.

An ultrasound test can help the veterinarian to diagnose the problem accurately. Accurate diagnosis is a must in developing an effective treatment plan. The ultrasound can show fluid build-up, masses, and organ issues. An ultrasound can rule out certain health problems and confirm a suspected diagnosis. It is a valuable diagnostic tool for diagnosing internal health problems.

2. Visible Lumps

An ultrasound can paint a clearer picture of the problem if you notice a lump on your pet. Not all lumps or masses are bad. An ultrasound is a good way to provide peace of mind and to help decide the next healthcare steps. Ultrasounds are non-invasive methods to determine whether a lump needs further investigation.

Veterinary hospitals that offer this type of testing are usually well-equipped to manage other testing necessary to evaluate a lump or a mass further. Getting your pet the best care is essential to their health. If you find a lump on your pet, it is always best to act swiftly to get them the care they need. Early interventions are usually the most effective. An ultrasound is one of the first steps in a treatment plan.

3. Pregnancy Monitoring

Ultrasounds are used by veterinarians to monitor pregnancies. When a pet is pregnant, ultrasounds can provide valuable information. For example, an ultrasound can determine the size of the litter. It can also determine the placement of the babies. This information can be used to prepare for the birth. Ultrasounds can provide important information about a pregnancy, including the average size of the babies. It can help with planning and birthing. Ultrasounds can detect health problems during pregnancy and more. It is an important tool for monitoring the health of mothers and babies.

4. Persistent Vomiting

If your pet is vomiting, an ultrasound may provide additional insight. If your pet has diarrhea for extended periods and treatments are not helping, an ultrasound may indicate obstructions, bowel disease, and other health problems. Typically, an ultrasound should be done if your pet is not responding to treatments within the expected timeframe.

Pets can ingest things you are unaware they have ingested. Ultrasounds can identify foreign bodies that may be causing illness. An ultrasound provides a detailed view of the digestive system. It can quickly identify if something is wrong with your pet's digestive system. It can help your veterinarian to understand your pet's health issues better.

5. Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can be related to several health issues. If your pet's diet has not changed and their exercise has not increased, then an ultrasound can be used to determine why they are losing weight. There can be a host of medical problems that cause weight loss.

An ultrasound can rule out some causes that may contribute to unexplained weight loss. For example, an ultrasound can rule out tumors and other gastrointestinal problems that can contribute to rapid weight loss. An accurate diagnosis can get your pet back on track with their health.

Ultrasounds are vital in healthcare for humans and pets. According to the World Animal Foundation (WAF), about 49,000 certified veterinarians are in America. However, not all veterinary hospitals are equipped with ultrasound machines. These machines are important tools in diagnostics and animal health care.

Unfortunately, our pets can't tell us what's bothering them. If there is an internal issue, behavior changes may occur. It is critical to be able to identify health problems accurately in pets. Ultrasounds are great tools for helping your veterinarian make informed decisions about the best course of treatment. Get the complete healthcare support you and your pet deserve. Call today at West Toledo Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment.